Below are common reasons used to request Council to withdraw an animal fine. None of them are valid reasons:

• Being a first offence or having an excellent record before the issuing of the fine
• The animal being your first pet and you were unaware of your responsibilities
• English is not your first language and you did not understand the animal registration reminder
• Being unaware of the requirements of caring for an animal
• Being new to the area and unfamiliar with the requirements for animals (includes residents from Victoria, interstate and overseas)
• Being on a restricted income or having insufficient funds to pay the fine
  NOTE: Victorian legislation does not allow for student or pensioner discounts for fines. A payment arrangement (extension in time) is available in these cases
• Believing that it is unconstitutional for a Council to issue an animal fine.

Cat and dog registrations expire April 10 every year. A registration payment is due by that date.

Below are common reasons used to request Council to withdraw an animal registration fine. None of them are valid reasons:

• Being out of the state or overseas when animal registration is due
• Not receiving an animal registration renewal notice
• Your animal is sick and is not expected to live much longer
• Being unaware of animal registration requirements.

Dogs at large are dogs that have been found wandering from a property or not under the effective control of a person.

Dogs at large are a hazard to pedestrians, cyclists, drivers and themselves. They may become aggressive if they become frightened by unfamiliar surroundings or people. They can also defecate in the street and neighbouring gardens.

Saying that your dog is old and usually does not wander is not a valid reason to withdraw a dog at large fine.

Minor Dog Attack Fine

A minor dog attack occurs when a dog rushes a person or attacks or bites a person or an animal and the injuries are minor. The Community Laws Officer will have investigated the incident and determined that a fine should be issued.

Below are common reasons used to request Council to withdraw a minor dog attack fine. None of them are valid reasons to withdraw the fine:

• Your dog is sick or old and is not expected to live much longer
• Your dog is easily startled
• The injuries "were not that serious".

Serious Dog Attack Fine

Serious dog attacks, as defined in the Domestic Animals Act 1994 Section 3(1), are referred directly to the Magistrate’s Court. No fine review is possible under these circumstances.